Approach
Design Research & Discovery
I develop creative research tools and apply a range of design methods, tailored to each project, to identify the right problems to solve.
Using qualitative and quantitative research approaches to uncover people’s true needs and organizational goals. I develop a set of creative research tools allowing people to comfortably talk about their challenges and perspectives.
I’m an experienced design researcher, have led and conducted diverse research activities in Kenya, Tanzania, India and USA.
Systems Thinking
I work with systems to design holistic solutions.
Having experience working in the international development and health sector, the complexity of projects has trained me to examine the problem at both micro and macro scales in order to sense the pain points across multiple ecosystem layers. I map out systems to identify and connect seemingly unrelated parts for holistic solutions.
(2) Tanzanian adolescent girls' life factor mapping for vulnerability assessment
Sense Making
I adopt various frameworks to turn raw data into actionable opportunities.
I analyze data through different lenses to explore hidden user needs in multidimensional aspects.
Visualization is my prime tool to communicate research findings. Diagrams such as service journeys, blueprints, system maps, storyboards along with quotes help me to create effective empathy, bring the insights to life for both internal and external communication.
Co-creation & Conceptualization
I run workshops with clients, partners and end-users as part of analysis and inspiration of new services.
Users and service owners are experts to their context. I run co-creation as a platform to gather their wishes and gain their buy-in to the concept at early stages. I plan and facilitate co-creation activities with experts, partners, users as well as remaining critical players in the system.
| Sacrificial concept sketching for quick feedback |
Prototyping & Evaluation
I validate design hypotheses with MVP – quick and dirt.
I build stuff- both physical and digital. With a background in industrial design, my skill set doesn’t restrict to digital but can build concrete objects to simulate the service experience. I tailor my techniques to the context I work with.
Every user testing is carefully planned to gain the right feedback. I believe in creating strict criteria based on project’s requirements will steer the ideas on the right track.
| Experiential prototyping and street interviews for feedback |
Collaborate With Multidisciplines & Cultures
I’ve learnt to be flexible and play versatile roles in teamwork, either support or lead.
In the interdisciplinary teamwork, I’ve learnt to be flexible and play versatile roles depending on the project needs. But most importantly, represent and contribute the design expertise among different professions.
For the past few years, I’ve worked for short or long term among Taiwan, China, Germany, Finland. Most recently, frequently travel to India, Tanzania, Kenya and the USA for project work. These experiences, enable me to quickly immerse myself in the context to pick up the nuances for collaboration and designing.
| Group discussion facilitation in Nairobi market |
Interested to know more?
Drop me a line. I’m always happy to meet new people and chat over coffee!
hello.fangyi@gmail.com